Georgia, Tbilisi, Nov. 17 /Trend N.Kirtskhalia /
Normalization of Georgia's relations with Russia was discussed by Georgian Foreign Minister Maya Panjikidze and Assistant Secretary of State Philip Gordon in Tbilisi today.
The meeting was held behind closed doors. It was attended by the Special Representative of the Georgian Prime Minister for relations with Russia Zurab Abashidze. He introduced Gordon to the strategy on normalization of relations with Russia.
Georgia is going to restore trade and cultural relations with Russia in the first place. However, the restoration of diplomatic relations cannot be considered before abolition of Russian embassies in separatist regions of Georgia, recognized by Russia - Abkhazia and South Ossetia.
During the meeting Panjikidze and Gordon discussed the prospects of bilateral relations, stressed the importance of geo-strategic partnership and cooperation within the Charter of Partnership signed between Georgia and the U.S.
Gordon will complete his three-day visit to Georgia on Saturday. Before leaving he is going to meet with Georgian President Mikheil Saakashvili.
Military action was launched in the Georgian territory of South Ossetia on Aug.8 in 2008. Later the Russian troops occupied the city of Tskhinvali and drove the Georgian military back. Russia recognised the independence of Abkhazia and South Ossetia in late August. In response, Tbilisi broke off diplomatic relations with Moscow and announced the two unrecognised republics as occupied territories.